CHICAGO — Defender C.J. Brown, the Chicago Fire's all-time leader in games and minutes played, Thursday signed a multi-year contract extension with the team. Financial terms were not disclosed.

A former All-Star, Brown has appeared in 172 games and played 15,098 minutes in his career with the franchise. He is one of five members from the inaugural 1998 team.

"I'm very excited to re-sign with the MLS and be able to stay in Chicago," Brown said. "This is where I started my career and I'm fortunate to be with a first-class team and have the support of the best fans in the MLS."

Brown, whose 170 starts are tied with Jesse Marsch for the team record, has two goals and nine assists in his career.

"It is wonderful for the league, the Fire and the fans that C.J. has extended his contract with the MLS," Fire general manager Peter Wilt said. "C.J. exemplifies everything the Fire looks for in a player on and off the field."

Contributing: SportsTicker

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